International Students

Welcome to Gymnasium Paulinum

Choosing a school is about selecting the community where your child will live and grow for the coming years. This community is vital; it must enrich, support, and inspire your child.

Founded in Münster in 797 and enriched by a global perspective, Gymnasium Paulinum is the intellectual home for those seeking an excellent education within an open, multicultural environment. We inspire our students to discover their individualities, pursue their dreams, and think internationally.

International Students

At Gymnasium Paulinum, we embrace students from all over the world. Some may arrive with little to no knowledge of German, while others might have a basic understanding of the language. New students participate in standard classes while receiving regular instruction in German in small groups led by qualified teachers (DaZ/German as a Second Language). This support continues until they can communicate effectively in both spoken and written German, allowing them to be evaluated according to the normal grading system.

In addition to the German Abitur, students at Gymnasium Paulinum have the opportunity to earn the International Baccalaureate Diploma, which is recognized and accepted worldwide.

Orientation Level

The transition to secondary school is a significant milestone for our students. After four years of elementary school, students enter the orientation level, which includes grades 5 and 6 (Erprobungsstufe). Each student is placed in a homeroom class of about 28 students, where a dedicated team of teachers provides both academic and social-emotional support. Older students (10th graders) serve as mentors to assist new students, especially during their initial weeks at the school. Throughout this orientation period, teachers offer task-based instruction while observing and evaluating the students.

Students also continue their social and emotional learning using tools such as Lions Quest.
Gymnasium Paulinum provides a safe and nurturing environment for after-school programming on regular school days. In the Übermittagsbetreuung, students have the opportunity to complete their homework, enjoy leisure time to play, be creative, and spend time with friends while enjoying healthy snacks or lunch in our cafeteria, Paula. Our afternoon activities allow students to explore and pursue hobbies through various special classes in music, art, science, technology, nature, and sports.

Middle School

We understand that the middle school years (Mittelstufe, grades 7-9/10) require creativity, personalized attention, and a rich, engaging curriculum to help students reach their full potential. Qualified subject specialists teach a variety of academic disciplines, including biology, chemistry, physics, physical education, art, and music. The languages of instruction are German and English. Starting in grade 7, students also have the opportunity to learn French, Latin, and Spanish. Additionally, students begin working and learning with their personal tablets from grade 8 onward.

Upper Level

Our Oberstufe consists of grades 10-12. In addition to the German graduation exam (Abitur), students have the opportunity to obtain the International Baccalaureate Diploma, which is recognized and accepted worldwide.

Paulinum International Parents Organisation

The Paulinum International Parents Organisation (PAOLO) is a supportive group of parents that assists families with international backgrounds.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact them at paolo@paulinum.eu.

First Contact: We Are Here For You!

We invite you to reach out to us at Paulinum for further information or to schedule a private visit. We look forward to meeting you and welcoming you to our community!